Ideally, try and get a job in the industry for a summer, or get a bit of experience before you go into it. You have to be happy with working outside, and doing physical work. If you are not prepared to work hard or are looking for a soft job, don't go into Landscaping. Design is very sexy at the moment, everyone wants to be a designer, a Landscape Designer. It's different on the ground, you have to be out there on sites in all weather and you have to make sure projects are managed well and you're able to muck in with everyone else.
Biology is most important for anyone going into Horticulture or Landscaping as it covers propagation and helps with the identification of plant names, species and families through the universal use of Latin. Chemistry is also helpful as the use of various chemicals is a constant in horticulture. The chemical content and dangers of fertilizers, herbicides and insecticides in use in Amenity Horticulture needs to be understood anyone going into this business. Geography would be a relevant subject as well.
Also, the simple things like having a full, clean driving licence, which can make you a lot more employable if you are trying for a job with a Landscape Conractor. This indicates that you are more mobile and can also drive a company van if needed. Be sure you're happy with the outdoor life. Having taken a Horticulture course will give you an advantage. However, it's possible to take a job first and study later, e.g. in IT Blanchardstown it is possible to study at night. I think you cannot beat doing the Diploma Course in the National Botanic Gardens because it is a good practical course which also covers all the theory and is invaluable for gaining plant knowledge.

Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.

Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.

Occupation Details

Caterer

Education These occupations usually require a Leaving Certificate or equivalent.

Related Experience Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is usually needed. For example, a bank teller would benefit from experience working directly with the public.

Job Training Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few months to one year of working with experienced employees. A recognised apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.

Prepares and supplies food, drink and entertainment for functions and special events.

Videos & Interviews

1Total Records: 5

James Sheridan

Restaurant Manager

James Sheridan is the Manager of Ivans Oyster Bar and Grill in Howth., Co. Dublin. He started working in the restaurant business as a part time job when he was 15 and decided when he left school to pursue a career in the area. He did the Hospitality and Skills course in Waterford Institute of Technology, where he received a distinction in his final year exams.

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Lisa Curry

Catering Sales Executive

Lisa Curry works as a Catering Sales Executive for the Ritz Carlton Hotel in Powerscourt, Co Wicklow. She is part of the Sales and Marketing team which is responsible for generating top line revenue for the hotel. Having completed her Leaving Certificate in Sion Hill in Blackrock she went on to do a BSc in Hospitality Management in Cahal Brugha Street.

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David Kehoe

Chef

David Kehoe is the Executive Head Chef in the Tower Hotel in Dublin. When he completed his Leaving Cert he went to study in Athlone IT on a 2 year fulltime professional cookery course. He also is qualified in HACCP (Food Safety Mgmt) up until management level. He was one of the chef presenters on "Corrigan Knows Food", which was on RTÉ1 television.

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Cosmin Tudor

Restaurant Manager

Cosmin Tudor works as a Restaurant Manager in McDonald's in Dublin. He holds a Diploma in Management, Commerce and Tourism which he got while studying in Romania. He is responsible for the overall operation and profitability of his restaurant.

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Lisa Berry

Restaurant Manager

Lisa Berry is a Restaurant Manager with McDonalds Ireland having started as a Trainee Manager in 2000. She is responsible for all aspects of running the restaurant and enjoys the variety, challenge and responsibility that this gives her. She is currently completing a HETAC Level 6 qualification in conjunction with McDonalds and National College Ireland in First-Line Management.

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Further Information

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Career Guidance

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Higher Ed & CAO Course suggestions

If you are interested in this occupation, then the following courses may also be of interest. Note that these course suggestions are not intended to indicate that they lead directly to this occupation, only that they are related in some way and may be worth exploring.

If you are interested in this occupation, then the following courses may also be of interest. Note that these course suggestions are not intended to indicate that they lead directly to this occupation, only that they are related in some way and may be worth exploring.